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Belize.
Ruins, Reef and Rainforest Active Adventure

Day 1: Arrive in Belize

Receive a warm welcome from your local guide upon arrival at the Belize International Airport and head deep into the heart of the jungle. Surrounded by the Maya Mountains and located high above the Macal River, Black Rock Lodge is the perfect environment to experience the true wildlands of Belize.

Day 2: Macal River Canoeing & Xunantunich

Paddle and float the gentle waters of the Macal River as you canoe downstream to the friendly town of San Ignacio. The riverine habitat is a gallery for viewing parrots, toucans, and myriad bird species, monkeys, iguanas and other wildlife. Enjoy lunch in the culturally diverse small town of San Ignacio lunch before venturing to the Maya ruins of Xunantunich or “Maiden of the Rock”. Climb to the top of the dominant temple of this ancient city rising 130 feet providing an amazing view over the tree tops of the surrounding forest and ancient city. Explore the ruins with your guide who helps you visualize ancient Mayan life from life or death ball games, to battles with adjacent cities, and spiritual rituals calling forth celestial powers. Return to the lodge to enjoy a delicious tropical dinner listening to the howling monkeys, buzzing insects, creaking frogs, and nocturnal bird calls of the rainforest.

Day 3: Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave, Night Walk

Drive 45 minutes east to begin a rainforest hike crossing streams through lush protected habitat of the 6,700 acre Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve to reach Actun Tunichil Muknal. One of the most impressive caverns in Belize, the Cave of the Stone Sepulcher was sacred to the prehistoric Maya who first began using it during the early classic period (300-600 AD). The cave system consists of a series of chambers leading to a 300 by 50 meter cathedral where the Maya held sacrificial ceremonies in this sacred underworld. Here you will be exposed to the remains of individuals sacrificed to the gods of the underworld. Head out on a guided night walk after dinner to observe nocturnal creatures such as kinkajous, bats, owls, northern potoos, tyras, and coatimundis.

Day 4: Horseback Riding to Big Rock Falls & Zip-Lining

Set off into the rain forest on a morning horseback ride to Big Rock Falls, a beautifully secluded 150-foot waterfall on Privassion River and a great spot to cool off after the horse ride in the natural swimming pool always at perfect temperature. Enjoy lunch and a swim before the short drive to Calico Jack’s zip-line course set into the side of the Maya Mountains. Choose from a variety of courses ranging from 4 platforms and 1,000 ft. to 15 platforms and 2,700 ft. of pure adrenaline!

Day 5: Cave Tubing & Southwater Caye

Prepare for an unforgettable day of tubing through an expansive limestone cave system carved by the Caves Branch River. Hike along the river’s edge before jumping onto your tube and disappearing into a massive cavern filled with underground waterfalls, limestone formations, and an incredible crystal cathedral chamber. Head to the tranquil South Water Caye Marine Reserve where you will stay for the next few days. Kick off your shoes, unpack and settle into your beach cabana located on South Water Caye, a private 15 acre island located on the Belize Barrier Reef. Take in wonderful ocean views and walk along pristine white sands just outside your door. Head out snorkeling or grab a fishing pole and try your hand at catching snapper, permit, or tarpon. You may also choose to sit back and relax in a hammock beneath swaying palms.

Days 6-7: Belize Barrier Reef & Free Days

Explore unique coral formations and swim among a variety of brilliantly colored tropical fish as you experience the marine environment on two half-day snorkeling and swimming excursion. The Belize Barrier Reef is the longest unbroken barrier reef in the world. Your guide will swim alongside you, pointing out the dazzling array of tropical fish, hydrocorals, sea fans, feather plumes, sponges, and sea cucumbers. Return to the lodge for lunch and enjoy the rest of the day relaxing at the beach. The remainder of your stay is at your leisure. Additional tours and activities can be arranged with the lodge manager during your stay. Note that snorkeling equipment is included.